Check whether someone has an abusive past
Clare’s Law is the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme. It’s named after Clare Wood, who was murdered in 2009 by her ex-boyfriend who had a history of violence against women.
The scheme allows you to ask us about the information we hold on a person in relation to domestic abuse offences and convictions if you believe that you or someone you know is in a relationship with an individual that could cause them significant harm.
If you are concerned that a new, former or existing partner has an abusive past you can ask the police to check under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (also known as ‘Clare’s Law’). This is your ‘right to ask’. If records show that you may be at risk of domestic abuse, the police will consider disclosing the information. A disclosure can be made if it is legal, proportionate and necessary to do so.
If you are concerned about a friend or family member, you can apply for a disclosure on behalf of someone you know.
You can make a request to the police for information about a person’s previous violent offending in person at the police station or elsewhere, by telephone, by email, online or as part of a police investigation. The Liberty Centre can also help you ask the police about this.
Disclosures provide you with domestic abuse information the police hold on an individual. If checks show that the individual has a record of violent behaviour or something that may put you at risk of harm, they will consider sharing this with you.
A disclosure request under this scheme can be made by:
- Someone who has concerns that their partner may harm them
- A third party, such as a parent, neighbour or friend who has concerns about someone’s safety